All About Fibroadenomas

When a woman feels something unusual in her breast, it's natural for her to worry that it's cancer. Fortunately, that's not always the case. Benign lumps known as fibroadenomas are one example of a harmless breast condition.

At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, and through his research and work on clinical trials at the Saint John's Cancer Institute, oncologist and renowned surgeon Dr. Trevan Fischer uses his excessive knowledge of cancer to ensure the proper diagnosis and the best possible treatment. He employs state-of-the-art techniques along with the most up-to-date findings to treat everything from breast and skin cancers to fibroadenomas and more.

Fibroadenomas

Like breast cancer, a fibroadenoma is a breast tumor. Unlike cancer, however, it is benign and remains solely in the breast tissue rather than potentially spreading through the body. 

It is usually small, often just one or two centimeters in diameter. It may feel smooth, firm, hard, or rubbery and has a shape that is well-defined — often similar to a marble. It can also move under the skin. Typically it is not painful.

Fibroadenomas are common. In fact, about one in ten women have one. Most frequently, they occur in women between 15 and 35 years old or during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While the cause is unknown, they may be related to reproductive hormones since they tend to shrink after a woman goes through menopause.

Most often, women only have one fibroadenoma, but some women experience more. The majority of fibroadenomas do not increase a woman's risk of breast cancer, though people with certain subtypes, known as a complex fibroadenoma or a phyllodes tumor, may have a slightly increased chance.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis begins with a physical exam followed by diagnostic imaging such as an ultrasound or a mammogram. If a mass is found, a biopsy is conducted to obtain tissue to study the cells in depth.

Once cancer has been ruled out, usually no treatment is needed if the fibroadenoma is not causing any pain. However, it is important to have regular breast exams. If you are experiencing significant discomfort, it can be removed during minimally invasive surgery.

If you find a lump in your breast, don't panic. That said, never ignore any lumps in your breast area. A quick examination can offer you the peace of mind you need. Call our office today or click to book an appointment with Dr. Fischer for an expert diagnosis.